1/32 Tamiya RNZAF F4U-1A Corsair

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I present to you my Corsair. I started this thing about two years ago and did built a little here and a little there. I guess I got a little sidetracked with other projects and I’m sure that never happens to any of you. Anyway, I painted it with paints from Mission Models. I was a lacquer guy for a long time, but these new paint are really terrific. I used Ammo of Mig panel line washes and Engine Oil and pastels to add interest. I used several techniques to get the chipping done including salt, hairspray and sponge. The national insignias were originally painted on using Montex masks, but I found that the PVC distorted too much making it almost impossible to register all the different colors properly. I made my own masks instead using sheets of Tamiya masking film. The only aftermarket items I used were an excellent seatbelt set from HGW. I did use the angry duck and kill decals that came with the Montex masks, though.

This was a really enjoyable build and have to say that Tamiya precision makes it even more pleasurable. I don’t really have any complaints about the kit except the decals, but that’s just me.

29 responses to 1/32 Tamiya RNZAF F4U-1A Corsair

Stunningly nice work. Congratulations. A small point: Those are not all “kill” markings – they are mission markings, the ones with the bombs indicate a bombing/ground attack mission. By the time the RNZAF used Corsairs (from Mid-1944, replacing the P40’s) encounters with Japanese Aircraft in their area (Solomons and New Britain/Coral sea) were rare, and very few air to air victories went to the Corsair. (I think one Corsair had 2 Japanese flags on the fuselage to indicate air to air Kills, but Most had 1 or none.) Not that it was not dangerous, Japanese Flak and the weather accounted for quite a few losses, as did simple mechanical failures. The Ships and trucks are ground kills.
Brett

🙂 … Greetings … 🙂 :
This one really jumps out at you George … very nice work. Your choice for the RNZAF markings are spot on and makes it unique. The weathering and faded look give it a special touch. thank you for sharing such great photographs.

George, This is fantastic, I’ve enjoyed following your progress on our local OMS club page. I’m very impressed with your final results, especially the well worn/used look without going too far overboard, and that patented George Johnson paint wear that I’ve been impressed with for some time. Overall, very well done !

I would label this kit as the thinking mans model with having to do all the different applications of paint… never has a kit looked so used,abused and warn out. With the end result that it looks good. My only niggle, another helping of photos please. Its a crime not to show all of your gifts and talents on this one George.

George, I am speechless with this one! Awesome job in every way. I built this model recently and had a ball working with it and painting it. I love the NZ scheme. Been doing a lot of models recently from that theater of war along with many FAA aircraft. They are actually for a customer who is collecting aircraft from SE Asia theater, Burma, South Pacific….Axis and Allied. I sent pictures to him he is going to go nuts when he sees it.

Thanks! I was really into Russian/Soviet aircraft for a couple of years and now, all of a sudden, I’m really interested in WWII stuff. I’m going to start on the Zoukei-Mura Do-335 today after I clean the mess up from the Corsair. I just bought a WNW Stahltaube that I’m anxious to get going on as well.